E46 320ci Power Loss, rough start

[SanderVdW]

Hi guys,

I'm having some issues with my e46 '01 320ci 125kW. Usually I have no problem at all, but once in a while, always after I have driven about half an hour minimum and then try to start it after leaving it parked for about 15-30mins, it starts really roughly. It cranks about 2 seconds and then I have a huge power loss, like it runs on only 4 cylinders or something. I have no idling problems, this is the only thing. No engine light or nothing. I've replaced the spark plugs and then the problem seemed to went away but, after 2 months it came back.

Someone has a clue?


Thank you,
Sander

[DeltamaxX]

What does the temp gauge show while driving/idling? If it starts cold just fine but has a rough idle after reaching operating temperature, it sounds like a cooling issue which M54s are known to have after 100,000 miles.

[Mataa]

Hi, what is that cooling issue really about? I own a 320i with an M54Engine.

Infact, I came here to seek help. Thought of checking through in case the issue has been discussed already.

My car had a fuel pump problem two years ago and I installed Karl fuel pump. I have been having what i think to be symptoms of a cold start where the car cranks to starting but stops. It always kicks in second start. If I apply some pressure on the peddle while starting, it goes through but revs a bit high probably coz of the pressure on the peddle.

Since the fuel pump problem, I have never let the gas go below quarter tank. Till yesterday when I took a drive after fitting new tyres in front The guage has fallen to slightly below quarter tank.Came back home, Washed the car in readiness of the week. Now when I drove it back to the packing shelter, it could not stay on for the reverse into the parking shelter. I started it about four times in which cases it went off as rolled it in gear.

I'm not sure if it is the pump or something else. But the symptoms are close to what I experienced when I lost the first pump. When it ran for a bit longer like 10 sec, i reved and the power just came back down like there is no fuel.
I hear there is a way of checking the fuel pressure on the dash. Trying to figure that out if it is really possible but thought of posting this here meantime.

Any help is always appreciated.

[shogun]

moved to E46 forum from E46 DIY